Editorial
Dear R eaders!
L
et’s end the year in high spirits!
Lessons are learnt the hard way. You may say it is
pure luck while others may call it divine intervention.
Whatever it may be called, the narrow escapes from
the recent avoidable incidents in the area of operation
should not be taken lightly. We can avoid all the “should
haves”, “would haves”, and “could haves” by taking heed
of the advice of those in command and by abiding by
the UNDOF SOP.
On the bright side, the accomplishments and progress of
this quarter outweighs its setbacks. We have witnessed
the completion of important projects in different
locations. We have progressed in our preparation
through training. We have sustained operations
through successful rotation of personnel. Each incident
has made us more vigilant and stronger, both; as an
individual and as a team. It has allowed us to identify
our weakness and apply the necessary remedies to move
forward.
We can only pray that this winter season will freeze the
anger, violence and oppression in this beautiful country
and as the next season warms again, the violence is
From left: Maj Ned Taito, SSO Media/PR
Maj Deborah Wise, SO PR and
Sgt Jese Sorovi, Force Photographer
thawed to peace. And with peace, everyone will
work together to rebuild their homes.
May this X-MAS and New Year bring you
abundance of joy and lasting peace!
Yours sincerely,
Maj Deborah Wise Tove
SOPR
SOPR
Editorial ........................................................................................................................... 2
Editorial Staff:
Unit Press Officers:
DFC UNDOF
Deputy Force Commander’s Address ....................................... 4
Editor in Chief,
Proofreader , Layout Designer
& SOPR
Maj Deborah Wise
PHILBATT - Maj Arnold Gasalatan
FC UNDOF
COS UNDOF
Force Commander’s Message ............................................................. 3
Chief of Staff 's Message....................................... 5
Visits to UNDOF Visitors to UNDOF................................................... 6
Visits to UNDOF MILAD visits UNDOF................................................................................. 7
Co-Editor
Maj Ned Taito
People of UNDOF New People in UNDOF ............................................................................... 9
Force Photographer
Sgt Jese Sorovi
People of UNDOF Change of Command ....................................................................................... 8
UNDOF events
UNDOF events...................................................................................................... 10
UNDOF women Women of Courage.........................................................................................1111
FIJIBATT
Fiji Day with a difference........................................ 12
FIJIBATT
IRECON
INDCON
Diwali-The Festival of Lights .................................17
INDCON
OGG
TRAINING
WELFARE
253rd Corp Day for Army Service Corp........................16
A climber in Golan............................................................................................ 18
UNDOF civilains prepare for the worst................................. 19
Jordan - UNDOF welfare tour........................................................... 20
MEDICAL
New look Camp Faoaur medical centre.................................. 21
UNDOF
Jingle bells...Its x-mas time!................................................................... 23
UNDOF
Front (Page 1): FIJIBATT - Maj Patrick Sloan
INDCON - Maj Arti Tiwari
UNDOF- Maj Deborah Wise
OGG - Capt Vibeke Sefland
Proofreaders
Mr. Ibrahim Shaikh Ali
Maj Antonio Nagauna
A new experience for FIJIBATT...........................13
7th rotation for PHILBATT.................................. 14
IRECON continues to keep busy ......................... 15
PHILBATT
A soldiers story - in and out of danger..................................... 22
Female Staff Officers of UNDOF.............................24
Photo by Maj J.H. Turagasau
Back (Page 24): Last sunset of 2013 from Golan
Photo by Sgt Jese Sorovi
2
The Editorial Staff of Golan Journal 137
- the UNDOF Journal
Editorial Office:
UNDOF HQ
Camp FAOUAR
E-Mail: [email protected]
Online edition:
http://undof.unmissions.org
The Golan Journal is the magazine of the United Nations Disengagement
Observer Force and it is intended to provide information about the Force and
events within it which are of interest to its members. The UNDOF Media/
Public Relations Office publishes the Golan Journal quarterly. While articles and
photographs are welcomed from all members of the Force, the view and opinions
expressed are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily coincide with
those of the United Nations or the Force Commander.
The copyright of all material in this journal is vested in United Nations Publications except where an acknowledgment is made to another holder. No articles
or illustrations may be reproduced without the permission of the editorial staff.
Force Commander’s Message
F
FC UNDOF
or UNDOF, the last quarter of the year can be termed as
the international diplomacy quarter and a period where we
have risen to our full component capability. UNDOF reached
out to maximum diplomatic representation of regional powers,
P5 and our own TCCs to make them understand our relevance,
exert influence on affected parties and to improve self-protection
measures for the force. I sincerely thank the government of
Philippines and India in believing in the staying power of
UNDOF.
We organised two Ambassador day events on both Syrian and
Israeli sides and a regional level Force Commander Meet for
improving the regional cooperation. UNDOF has definitely
come of age and has now carved a special place on the regional
and world map. Our improved interaction with the diplomatic
community has helped us forecast events and be prepared
accordingly. Prospect of US armed intervention in Syria did
create concerns for us, but we were glad that as the threat slowly dissipated, it gave way to diplomatic measures to
diffuse the situation.
After rendering a great service to UNDOF, INDCON rotated its troops which saw 183 new eager soldiers come
in the mission area to carry out peacekeeping in a challenging environment. In the six month tenure, INDCON
led by example holding UN position for a brief duration in addition to performing JAPCON and its own logistic
tasks. I appreciate the yeoman service and flexibility displayed by them.
PHILBATT continued its good work with the extended tenure of troops becoming battle hardened. Being
present in the most dangerous area, PHILBATT continued to evolve, slowly gaining the respect of the locals and
various armed groups. The response of the contingent thwarted any more attempts of intimidation by the armed
groups. I am sure the incoming battalion will be geared up to face the challenging environment. I also express
my deepest grief on the damage and destruction caused by the super typhoon Haiyan in Philippines. I wish for a
speedy rehabilitation and recovery of the displaced and affected persons.
FIJIBATT is on firm footing with locals having adjusted to their seemingly large footprints. Their friendly,
calm and composed nature has won over the local population who regard them for their professional and helpful
outlook.
Most dramatic of all was the extra-ordinary improvement in our self-defense capability with the force reserve
company (FRC) of Ireland integrated in the force protection mechanism as my crisis response force. On numerous
occasions the prompt action of the MOWAGS of the FRC resulted into quick diffusion of situation. On at least
two occasions they were fired upon and the return of fire was quick and heavy to send a message to the attackers.
With the addition of five MOWAGS now we have a dozen strong APC fleet further strengthening our response.
NEPCON completed its winter training and hopes to spend its first winter on the Mount Hermon event free. I
am sure that being from mountains they will successfully adapt to the environment and carry out the mandated
observation task irrespective of the vagaries of the nature.
On a final note, we are at an all-time high with full strength of all our complements functioning like a well-oiled
machine. We hope to maintain our heightened state of safety and keep our peacekeepers out of harms way while
concentrating on carrying out our mandate.
Thank You, Danke, Salamat, Vinaka, Dhanyavad, Shukran, Toe Dah!
Lieutenant General Iqbal Singh Singha
Head of Mission & Force Commander UNDOF
- the UNDOF Journal
3
DFC UNDOF
Deputy
Force Commander’s
Address
Dear UNDOF Peacekeepers!
I
t is indeed an honor for me to express my feelings to all
UNDOF Peacekeepers through the Golan Journal where
UNDOF’s activities and achievements are highlighted.
Thanks to the editorial body for its excellent effort.
Over the past month, we have witnessed the rotation
and change of command of continegnts in the mission.
Peacekeepers from the 14th Indian LOGBATT and 6th
PHILBATT successfuly completed their tour of duty
and handed over to their incoming counterparts. Both
contingents are commended for their contribution; in
particular during the difficult period that UNDOF was
facing. I thank them for an excellent job! At the same time, I would like to take this opportunity to
welcome the 15th LOGBATT and 7th PHILBATT into the mission area. I am
confident that they will easily handle any upcoming challenges in a professional
and competent manner while contributing to stability in the Golan Heights.
I would also like to thank all other troop contributing countries on
FIJIBATT, NEPCON and IRECON for their relentless efforts
Throughout the period they have been consistent in their excellent
their collective efforts that we are able to continue this mission with
the ground including;
during this quarter.
outputs. It is through
no substantial hiccups.
As we are all aware, the security situation in the UNDOF area of responsibility is becoming more
unpredictable and difficult by the day. Though our primary responsibility is to accomplish the UN mandate
of maintaining the ceasefire in the AOR, we must also focus more on analyzing the dynamic situation and
plan for contingencies. Operating under such situation will obviously be a high threat for UN personnel
and its properties, therefore, we must be more careful while dealing with any situation in the AOR.
Despite more challenges ahead, we are fortunate to have Force Commander and Head of the Mission
LtGen I.S. Singha, whose able leadership and visionary guidance has enabled
the mission to move in the right direction.
I am confident that whatever the
situation, UNDOF will achieve its goal to maintain peace in the Golan Heights.
We are close to welcoming the New Year 2014 hence, I would like to take this opportunity to
wish you all and your families a MERRY CHRISTMAS and a wonderful HAPPY NEW YEAR
in 2014. May this New Year bring good health, happiness, peace and prosperity to you all.
And as the season in the mission area has changed with cold winds and low temperature now felt by every
one of us, all I can say is enjoy the winter season and take care of your health!
All the best in your endeavors.
Brigadier General Hari Bahadhur Basnet
Deputy Force Commander UNDOF
Thank you!
4
- the UNDOF Journal
Chief of Staff's Words
CO S U N D O F
Warrior Peacekeepers!
O
n top of my list when I assumed the Chief of Staff of
UNDOF, was to make every peacekeeper feel that his
contribution to the mission is valuable no matter how big
or small. A peacekeeper becomes an active member of the
team if he knows that his role is of great importance. With
all humility, I have succeded and altogether we were able
to effectively fulfill our mandate despite all the security
challenges. We placed UNDOF's motto of "One team, one
goal and one mission" in the forefront and we made it work.
I will end my mission here in the Golan Heights
after a year of service. I will celebrate with gratitude
for all the cooperation, support and blessings I
have received. I would like to thank the UNDOF
leadership, LtGen Iqbal Singha, the Force Commander and the Head of Mission, and the Deputy
Force Commander, BGen Hari Basnet, for placing the trust in me. The responsibility given to me as
the Chief of Staff is a monumental task. More than a position of power or privilege, it is a position of
service. It is an honor serving you all and this rare opportunity is something I will cherish forever.
The mission of preserving peace in this region has affected me so profoundly making me more convinced
that I should be helping in building peace between Syria and Israel. My deployment here has taught me
several things, but the greatest lesson I learned was respect for humanity, whom we serve and protect. I
realized that every person is a gift that must be appreciated, protected and shared. If we cannot uphold more
respect to the lives of people then we are doomed as a people too. Our survival depends on their survival.
Preserving peace in a land torn by war has given me so much insight about the people I have worked
for and worked with. The diversity of culture and traditions, and the diversity in language and in color
meant that I should seek first to understand, if I were to be understood. Though we are different, we
all seek the same peace and we all love with the same heart. Peace is possible if people would place
importance in love rather than hate and focus on what unites us, rather than on what divides us.
This mission has taken me to the Holy Land, the place where Jesus Christ walked and worked and
ate and lived. I have seen the streets and the houses He has seen. I have touched the soil that
has been home to Him. I may leave the Holy Land but the Holy Land will forever be in my heart.
I wish the incoming Chief of Staff and my successor all the best God's grace can offer.
The job has a lot of challenges and complexities but I have every trust in his capabilities.
I hope the rest of UNDOF will extend to him the similar respect you've given me.
May this season brings love and peace. Merry
Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.
ONE MISSION - ONE TEAM -ONE GOAL
Colonel Cirilito Sobejana, Chief of Staff UNDOF
- the UNDOF Journal
5
Visitors
Visits to UNDOF
Former Canadian Prime Minister was recieved by DFC,BrigGen
Hari B. Basnet and COS, Col C. Sobejano at Mt Bental. (22 Oct
13)
Netherlands Delegation led by LtCol Rob Keijzer visited
UNDOF in a fact finding mission. (13 Nov 13)
FC LtGen I.S. Singha met with SSAD Commanding BrigGen
Eng. Mazen Ibrahim Younes at his ROD Office in Damascus.
(12 Nov 13)
FC MFO MajGen Warren Whiting was hosted by DFC UNDOF
BrigGen Hari B. Basnet when he visited Camp Ziouani.
(24 Nov 13)
•
•
•
Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Air Vice-Marshall
Kevin Short was received by DFC Brig Gen Hari B. Basnet.
(12 Dec 13)
6
- the UNDOF Journal
Irish delegation led by C.S Hennesy - CIS expert work
party visited from 25 October - 01 November
Irish delegation led by LtCol J. Mcdonagh - expert recce
party
Indian delegation led by Maj Harish Joshi - from UN desk
New MILAD visits UNDOF
he head of the Office of Military Affairs and current UN Military Adviser LtGen Maqsood Ahmed
visited UNDOF from the period 19 – 21 December, 2013. He was welcomed with a guard of honor by
T
the FIJIBATT as he entered the gates of Camp Faouar. He also met UNDOF FC, LtGen Iqbal S. Singha
LtGen M. Ahmed was briefed on the situation in the AO and was escorted to UNDOF OPs and POSs to see for
himself firsthand the situation on the ground. Following his visit , Lt Gen Ahmed said that he appreciated the effort
and hard work being put by UNDOF to carry out the UNDOF mandate considering the situation on the ground.
The UNDOF “Peacekeepers of the Month” were honored to be presented with certificates
in recognition for their hard work and commitment during the month by LtGen M. Ahmed.
- the UNDOF Journal
7
Visitors
and UNDOF DFC, BrigGen Hari B. Basnet.
Pe o p l e o f U N D O F
Change is the only constant - Change of
Commands (CoC)
CoC between Commanding Officers' of PHILBATT on
03 Dec 2013
CoC between Commanding Officers' of INDCON on
22 Dec 2013
Guest of honor at PHILBATT CoC, the ambassador of the
Phillipines to Israel, His excellency Generoso Calonge on
03 Dec 2013
Guests at the INDCON CoC on 22 Dec 2013
PHILBATT soldiers salute the arrival of the reviwing officer
during CoC on 03 Dec 2013
INDCON soldiers salute the reviwing Officer during CoC
on 22 Nov 2013
8
- the UNDOF Journal
LtCol Erich Grogg was born in Switzerland on 28th March, 1959. He is a graduate
of the University Of Berne, Switzerland and holds a Master’s Degree in Economics
with Law and Information Technology. LtCol Grogg has served from Platoon level
to completing Staff Officer Course at Command and Staff College in Luzern. He
continued his career from Battalion to Staff Officer (G7 Cell) at Brigade level and
served as a UN Military Observer with UNTSO/OGG-D from 2000 to 2001.
LtCol Grogg completed several military courses from 2004 – 2007 at NATO
School. He served as Chief Instructor for the German UN Military Observer Course at the UN Training
Center in Hammelburg. He also acted as a Trainer for PSO courses/exercises at the Swiss International
Command (SWISSINT) and has experience in Development of Force and Military Doctrines at Swiss
Armed Forces Planning Staff.
He lives in Steffisburg/Thun with his wife Sylvia and their son, Nino. LtCol Grogg likes sports such as
skiing, jogging, nordic walking and biking. He is fond of having good discussions among friends, reading,
cooking, British beers, good wines and smoking the Argüelles.
The new Commanding Officer LOGBATT(CO LOGBATT)
LtCol Sanjeev Haryal, SC was born on 8th Nov 1975 at Hyderabad. He was
educated at Nashik before graduating from Ambala. The Officer is an alumnus of
the prestigious Officer’s Training Academy, Chennai and was commissioned into
the Regiment of Artillery in 1998.
As a young Lieutenant, he participated in the 1999 Kargil War as a Gun Position
Officer. He has an enviable track record of having commanded an Artillery battery
in various theatres of operations including tenures of Counter Insurgency and
during the 2003 Op Parakram. It was during Counter Insurgency tenure in 2010
that the officer was decorated with the Shaurya Chakra, the third highest gallantry award of India. He
has held staff appointment as a Grade 1 Staff Officer of an Artillery Brigade (BOFORS) in New Delhi
and is also a qualified Instructor in Gunnery.
LtCol Haryal is married to Sonia and they are blessed with a daughter, Ananya and a son Medhansh.
The new Commanding Officer PHILBATT(CO PHIL BATT)
LtCol Ted Dumosmog was born in Cebu City on March 5, 1970 and is a graduate
of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) since 1991. He is also a graduate of
Special Operations; airborne; comptrollership; infantry; and intelligence Officer
training courses. In addition, he is also a graduate from the Naval Post Graduate
School, Monterey, California and Command and General Staff Courses.
He was the Battalion Commander of the 80th Infantry Battalion of the 2nd
Infantry Division of the Philippine Army for two years prior to his new assignment
with UNDOF.
LtCol Dumusmog is a recipient of several awards and commendations ranging from a Bronze Cross
Medal; Silver Wing Medal; 26 Military Merit Medals, 2 Military Commendation Medals and the
Combat Commander Badge.
He is happily married to former Miss Charmaine Legaspi Valdehueza of Cagayan De Oro City and is
blessed with two children.
- the UNDOF Journal
9
Pe o p l e o f U N D O F
The new Chief Observer Group Golan (COGG)
UNDOF events
UNDOF dedicates UN day to the fallen
n 24 October, 2013 UNDOF celebrated the 68th anniversary of
the United Nations with a joint military parade by peacekeepers
O
from Fiji, Philippines, India, Ireland and Nepal in Camp Faouar.
Also present, were the civilian staffs of UNDOF who turned up in
numbers to participate in the auspicious occasion. The highlight of
the parade was the laying of wreaths for 54 fallen comrades who had
served under the UN banner in UNDOF. The wreaths were laid by the;
Force Commander, Deputy Force Commander, Acting Chief Mission
Support, Chief Liaison Protocol Officer and the Commanding Officers
of the troop contributing countries.
In his address to the parade, the Force Commander, LtGen I.S. Singha emphasized the importance of
the UN Peacekeeping missions in keeping the peace in the Middle East region. In remembering the
fallen comrades, he mentioned that peacekeeping was not easy and that everyone had to carry out their
peacekeeping tasks in the best possible manner.
Ambassadors day on the Bravo side
NDOF hosted its annual Ambassadors
Day for the “B Side” at Sheraton
U
Damascus on November 13, 2013.
The event saw the representation of 17
different countries with diplomatic ties with
Syria. The Force Commander, LtGen I.S.
Singha welcomed them and expressed his
gratitude for their interest in learning more
about UNDOF’s situation in Syria.
The guests were presented with a political,
operational and mission support overview of UNDOF followed by an open house discussion. The level
of engagement during the open house discussion reflected the concern that most of the countries had for
the UNDOF mission.
LtGen Singha reassured those present that despite the challenges faced by the mission after the withdrawal
of Austria, Japan and Croatia, the decision to stay and continue the mission was a good one. “UNDOF
continues to carry out its mission mandate with confidence after being boosted by new troop contributing
countries from Fiji, Nepal and Ireland,” he said.
Special crossing for students
A
nother special student crossing was conducted on 29 October, 2013 to allow
students to cross from B-side to A-side and vice versa. Two students from B-side
were first assisted across to the A-side before a larger crowd of 30 students from the
A-side was assisted to cross to the B-side. The last student crossing was conducted two
months before.
All students and their luggage went through the standard border procedures before
and after they crossed on both sides. While the International Committee of the Red
Cross (ICRC) was the main coordinator of the crossing, UNDOF personnel from
the Liaison Protocol branch, LOGBATT transport section, Military Police, PHILBATT medical team,
Liaison Officers from both sides and OGG personnel were on the ground to assist in the smooth crossing
Articles by: Maj Deborah Wise
of students across the border.
Photographs by: Sgt Jese Sorovi
10
- the UNDOF Journal
Women of courage
arrived a week after her departure for Syria. Her deployment meant being separated for two years from
her husband, and a third Christmas without her loved one; as she herself had just returned from a one
year mission in Sinai in 2011.
LtCol Teresita De Los Reyes, the FMO of UNDOF has been in active military service with the Armed
Forces of the Phillipines as a military surgeon for twenty four years. Never married, she said her work
demanded too much of her time, so much that her family and personal life came second among her
priorities. Now, at the age of 50, she is committed to a Croatian military officer. She was the Focal
Point for Women in UNDOF in 2011 – 2012 and observed that women in the mission had to set aside
family obligations and endure separation from loved ones in the deliverance of service and duties, all for
humanitarian cause.
Inarguably, it takes a strong woman to leave her family thousands of miles behind and courageously risk
her life in a war zone in pursue of world peace. This however, is a choice that each of them consciously
makes when they enlist into their respective Armed Forces, where duty to their country comes before
their personal needs. These women have the freedom to resign from their work and pursue other careers
but most opt to stay because of the satisfaction of the work. Some of the female officers are on their
second tour of duty with UNDOF while others have served in Lebanon, Sinai and Iraq.
In UNDOF, 3% of the military personnel are females. Although only few; they are represented in
most areas of responsibilities. These include; operations, engineering, medical, public relations, logistics,
supplies and administration. It is hoped that in compliance with the passing of UNSC resolution 1325
on “Women, Peace and Security”, women will be empowered in numbers in all missions.
Middle top: MSgt Emma taking care of the
paperwork
Above: Pte Tagica, Pte Cakacaka and
Pte Marshall ready for convoy escort
duties
Left: Pte Lisa conducting radio check
Above: UNDOF female officers outside
the Pentagon
Article and photographs by: Maj Deborah Wise
- the UNDOF Journal
11
Wo m e n o f U N D O F
ajor Siliva Vananalagi was looking forward to the return of her husband to Fiji from China when
she was told to march in for pre-deployment training for a tour of duty with UNDOF where she
M
currently holds the appointment of SSO Logistics. Her military officer spouse was away for a year and
FI J I B AT T
Fiji Independence day - celebration with
a difference
n 10th October 2013, FIJIBATT troops celebrated Fiji Day in unique style. Back in their home
country on the auspicious day, the troops would be in ceremonial dress taking part in the Fiji Day
O
military parade at Albert Park in Suva, a parade that is ussually broadcast live on national television to
celebrate Fiji's independence. Family picnics and celebrations countrywide are also held on the day.
10th October fell on a Thursday and was a normal working day for the UN. Instead of celebrating Fiji
Day with a parade, Fiji troops in Golan worked on hardening the fortifications in their position and in
particular position 32A. The troops toiled in their green fatigues filling up gambion bags with sand to
harden their bunker with the help of FIJIBATT engineers. What made the day special was the fact that
their Commanding officer LtCol Qiliho was among them, leading the troops in the task, which boosted
their morale and made the stark reality of the operational environment of the Golan not too bad after all.
The day after, troops celebrated with a church service followed by a "close to local" cuisine at the
International Kitchen. The Bula Fiji spirit was showcased through the different colourful bula attires
which were worn by members of the contingent. The event was culminated with the cutting of the cake,
kava drinking and singing of Fijian chants until midnight..
CO FIJIBATT leads by example
Men at work
AB Lakosaya hauls in the gabion baskets
Fish for lunch...
12
- the UNDOF Journal
Article by: Maj Antonio Nagauna
Photographs by: Maj Deborah Wise
A new experience for FIJIBATT
the Golan, near the vicinity of the Holy Land.
In all overseas operations FIJIBATT has deployed to, including UNIFIL in Lebanon, this is the first time
Fijian soldiers have to operate in a snow covered AO. There was intense anticipation among the troops
both in Camp Ziouani and Camp Faouar when temperatures started to drop and the winds got icy and
when the first snowflakes fell - there was an excited frenzy among the Fijians.
In some of the field positions, Fijian troops took their shirts off and posed outdoors bare chested amidst
great cheering, taking photos to send home. Some played touch rugby in the cold and even two enthusiastic
soldiers even pounded kava roots using an iron mortar and pestle out in the snow storm and were cheered
on by their mates. In both UNDOF camps, Fijians made snowmen outside their barracks. Such was the
excitement in the first few days of snow and the melee ebbed away when it was time to clear the routes
and resume movements and patrols.
So this is what snow
feels like...
Above: Lets be the first to take pictures
in the snow while everyones asleep
Top centre: If snowman can do it...So
can we!
Right: Man plus snow equals snowman!.
What does snow smell like?
This track is cleared. Any other work to do out here?
Nothings going to stop em' having kava tonight...not even snow
- the UNDOF Journal
13
FI J I B AT T
will be a memorable one for all FIJIBATT personnel, not for the fact that they are the first batch
of Fijian soldiers deployed to the Golan in the UNDOF mission. For the first time in their lives, it will
2be 013
a white Christmas and for almost all of them - a once in a lifetime experience and to celebrate it on
PH I L B AT T
7th rotation for Phillipine Army contingent
n a simple traditional change of command ceremony between the 6th Philippine Contingent (PCGH)
and the 7th PCGH, the out-going and the in-coming commanders exchanged pleasantries and
Ifarewelled
each other at the formation grounds in a cold Thursday morning of 05 December 2013 in
Camp Ziouani.
The 7th PCGH is composed of 332 men and women of the 80th Infantry Battalion of the 2nd Infantry
Division of the Philippine Army, commaded by LtCol. Ted Dumosmog. The 7thPCGH arrived into
theatre from the Philippines through Beirut International Airport, Lebanon and crossed the borders into
Syria then through the Syrian border into Israel. It will be occupying Golan Heights within a period
of six months, subject to extension, to a maximum of one year. The 332 strong contingent includes; 13
females, three doctors, three nurses and a priest.
With the accomplishment of the 6th PCGH, LtCol Dumosmog said that it will be easier for them to
continue with their mission because of a job well done by their predecessor. He also expressed appreciation
to the UN for their continued trust and confidence in the Filipino soldiers. In view of their best efforts
and confidence, LtCol Dumosmog assures their full cooperation to their foreign counterparts in the
mission area and to fully support the Force Commander UNDOF.
Top: 6th and 7th PHILBATT contingent on parade
Clockwise from left: CO PHILBATT addresses the parade, PHILBATT
Officers give the thumbs up to UNDOF, CO PHILBATT says thank
you to Sister Benedict; and DFC addresses both the contingents.
Article by: Capt Aurelio Kigis
Photographs by: PHILBATT
14
- the UNDOF Journal
IRECON continue to keep busy...
CBRN training for members of IRECON
Tips on how to apply CPR on a casualty
Ceremonial
A parade was held on the morning of 25 November to mark the centenary of the founding of Óglaigh na
hÉireann. The ceremony displayed the continuity between the Irish Volunteers and the modern Defence
Forces and the fact that since 1958, the objectives of a defensive and protective approach and the disciplined
use of arms have all been a foundation of our approach to service with the United Nations. Music by Seán
Ó Riada (from Mise Éire) was provided for the guests and personnel on parade. UNDOF Deputy Force
Commander Brig Gen Hari Basnet inspected all the troops on parade. The parade concluded with the
raising of the National Flag and the playing of the Irish National Anthem. On conclusion of the parade,
all present retired for refreshments to the Irish House where the Deputy Force Commander opened a
centenary exhibition.
DFC accompanied by CO IRECON reviews the parade
IRECON Officers on parade
- the UNDOF Journal
15
I R E CO N
Training
Whilst our main focus is on the deployment of the Quick Reaction Force (QRF) and scheduled operational
patrols, concurrently we have a programme of continuous training. Training enables the troops and their
commanders to refine and perfect their drills and essential skills. Our training so far has focused on
APC contact drills, Medical training, Chemical, Biological, Radiation and Nuclear warfare (CBRN)
and communications. The necessary expertise for instruction in these areas is generic within the Irish
contingent. The aim of our training is to continually improve our skills and reaction times, for when we
are called upon to conduct these tasks on operations.
I N D CO N
253rd Corps day for Army Service Corps
olan peacekeepers of INDCON, LOGBATT celebrated Army Service Corps Day on 07 December,
2013 with great fervour. The occasion was graced by the presence of esteemed guests and included
G
LtGen and Mrs Iqbal Singh Singha, Force Commander and Head of Mission as well as other dignitaries
of UNDOF.
Army Service Corps is one of the oldest and largest administrative services of the Indian Army. The Corps
has come a long way during the course of two and a half centuries of dedicated and glorious service. It
came into existence during the early days of East India Company and has steadily spread its activities, to
be able to operate on land, water and air today.
The motto - ‘SEVA ASMAKAM DHARMA’, ‘Service is our Creed’. These hallowed words enshrine
the noble ethos that the brave and valiant soldiers of the Army Service Corps have lived up to, during the
course of their chequered history.
ASC is primarily responsible for the provision, procurement, and distribution of Supplies, POL, Hygiene
Chemicals and items of Hospital Comforts to Army, Air Force and when required for Navy and other Para
Military Forces. Quality control of provisioned supplies is ensured by the Food Inspection Organisation
of the Corps.
On this historic occasion of 253rd ASC anniversary, the gathering remembered all the valiant officers,
men and animals of the Corps who made the supreme sacrifice. Their courage and indomitable spirit
continues to propel the corps to greater heights.
Mrs Baljeet cuts the cake to mark the ASC Corps
Guests enjoying a drink
FC and guests enjoying the delicious indian cuisine
FC with other guests and members of the ASC Corps
anniversary
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- the UNDOF Journal
Article and Photographs by: Maj Arti Tiwari
Diwali - The festival of lights
I N D CO N
- the UNDOF Journal
17
A mountaineer on the Golan
OGG
must be the perfect place to serve when you are a mountain
surrounded by the Golan Mountains and Mount Hermon.
I tclimber;
Captain Vibeke Andrea Sefland serves as an UNMO (UN military
observer) on the Golan Heights in OGG-T (Observer Group Golan,
outstation Tiberias). She is the Team Leader in Team Wadi and that
is a bit the opposite around – placing her at the lowest spot on the
Golan. Well, at least she tries to have most of her duties at the one
OP a bit higher than the other she says with a smile.
Capt Sefland is an experienced officer from the Norwegian army. She
has served in Kosovo, Iraq, Chad, CAR, Afghanistan and also 14
months in UNIFIL, Lebanon. In between all the missions she travels
around the world and climbs the highest peaks at the coldest spots on earth. No wonder she has to come
back down to serve in warmer countries. When she served in Afghanistan she flew out on leave to climb
3 mountains in 3 weeks. From Kabul to Tanzania, climbed Kilimanjaro, then she flew to Germany, drove
down to Chamonix in France, climbed Mt. Blanc, drove on to climb Matterhorn from the Italian side but
was stopped by avalanches. And then back to Afghanistan…
She is one of the most experienced high altitude mountain climbers in Norway with 3 of The Seven
Summits (The Seven Summits are the highest mountain on each of the seven continents) and the fourth,
Mt Denali in Alaska is planned to be climbed three weeks after ending her mission in UNTSO. Directly
after the Denali expedition she will leave for Pakistan where three 8000meter peaks are her goals. “We
will have to see what the weather and the mountains decide,” she says and shows a deep respect for nature.
“We have to play in the same team with the mountain. We need to have enough time with good enough
weather to reach the summit.” And then, next autumn you will find her at Cho Oyu in Tibet, - the 6th
highest mountain in the world with its 8200 meters.
Last autumn she reached the summit of Mt Manaslu in Nepal with 8163 meters. It is the 8th highest
mountain in the world. The expedition lasted for two months, the team had to trek one week to reach
the foot of the mountain and then they started the climb which included several times up and down the
mountain to build camps at higher attitude and to acclimatize. “Everything is about desire, will power and
endurance, - and I have to add stubbornness. There is never an option for me to give up.“ She says and
add: “You don’t have to move fast, just keep moving forward -, and that goes for all of us in general.” They
carried equipment and established higher camps, moved up and started again. Her team also experienced
the largest avalanche on high mountains since 1996; 16 climbers died and more then 30 were injured. Her
team continued and reached the summit 1st of October 2012.
“If you want to train and be strong enough to reach your goals you can do it. At the OP I have everything
I need. I even have a little running path of nearly 170 meters”, which she of course has run 100 laps of
to qualify for membership in the Centurion Club at 54. “In missions it is all about being structured and
determined enough to fit in the training you need. I often wake up two hours earlier then the others just
to be sure I get my “my time”. If not it is easy to be caught up in your daily tasks or operations.”
“Everyone who got where they are had to begin where they were.”
Capt Vibeke Andrea Sefland is giving a presentation about her Manaslu
Expedition at the 8th of March in the OGG-T HQ. Welcome! “You
never know where trying will get you.”
Top: Andrea and Sherpa Lakhpa
enjoying a little break at 7800m
Right: UNMO's Capt Vibeke Sefland
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- the UNDOF Journal
UNDOF civilans prepare for the worst
TRAINING
o better prepare UNDOF international staff for
the deteriorating security situation in the area
T
of responsibility, the Security Management Team
(SMT) launched a Safe & Secure Approaches to
Field Environments (SSAFE) Training program.
The program; tailored for high risk environments
was mandatory for civilian staff and involved
expertise trainers both from UNDOF and
UNTSO. The training ensured that all staff was
able to conduct UN activities while ensuring the
safety, security and wellbeing of personnel and the
security of UN premises and assets.
The four day program entailed theoretical and
practical training which ensured that each
participant had a clear and better understanding
of radio communications, travel and convoy
procedures, personal security awareness, UXO’s
and mine awareness, hostage incident management
and how to survive a hostage incident, first aid, and
stress management.
Top right: Theory...Lectures on radio communications in
Syria
Middle right: Practical... hostage taking scenario
Right: Practical... convoy procedures gone wrong
Bottom right: Theory...In case of fire...
Bottom left: Participants of the second SSAFE training
which was held at Camp Faoaur in early December
- the UNDOF Journal
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Jordan - UNDOF welfare tour
We l f a r e
Welcome to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan!
The signboard gleefully greeted us
when we entered Jordan. This is my
second time to enter the country.
The first, I was only a passerby, just a
quick transit and hello to the airport
going home for leave. Contrary
from the first, this time I was a
tourist together with my 25 fellow
UNDOF peacekeepers. I took them
to Jordan for a four (4) days welfare
tour. My first get away from the host
countries. My feelings resonate what
the group felt, I was as excited as
they were!
Seeing Jordan in full view has awed us in so many ways. While traversing on our way to Petra along the
King’s Highway, we saw stunning mountains, plateaus and rock formations. From the group, I would
often hear undertone expressions like “wow”, “beautiful”, and “amazing”, “what a beauty”, “nature at its
best. Right there and then we were in trance by the beauty of Jordan.
Our first stop was at Petra also called the “Rose-Red City” because of the color of the stone out of which
it is carved. This vast and unique city took our breath and blown our mind away at least for a day. Petra,
a UNESCO World Heritage site overwhelmed us by its rich history of the Nabataeans people, heritage,
culture and natural rock formations.
Exploring the city by foot, we entered Petra where gigantic and majestic rocks as high as 200 meters
embraced us, we climbed 457 steps to reach the place of High Sacrifice and the 800 steps climbed to
the Monastery. The walks and climbs took us to various tombs, obelisks, museums, 3,000-seat theatre,
haunting drawings and colonnaded streets. Our tour in Petra capped dramatically by The Al-Khazneh
(the Treasury) lovingly gazed at us. The Treasury is the pride and joy of Petra and the most beautiful
monument there. The architectural style of it was quite unique in the ancient world. The site has been
the location of famous Hollywood movies such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Arabian Nights
among others and the latest was Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen.
To humbly stand where Moses stood when he viewed the Promised Land, the land promised or given
by God to the Israelites was a privilege. Though, we cannot clearly seen the places in the Promised Land
across Jordan due to windy and fuzzy weather that day, setting foot at Mount Nebo as our second stop
was spiritually fleeting experience.
The ancient city of Jerash was our last location. As we approached the city, we were welcomed by the
grandeur of Hadrian’s Arch which soothingly elapse our restlessness from a long drive. Jerash is located
in the North of Jordan generally acknowledged being one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns
in the world. It is “Rome away from Rome” as they call it. The place came under Roman rule and is one
of the ten great Roman cities of the Decapolis League, a group of ten cities on the eastern frontier of
the Roman Empire in Jordan and Syria. The extensive ancient city dazzled us with its long colonnaded
streets, hippodrome, temples dedicated to Zeus and Artemis, large theatres and the famous Corinthium
column.
Jordan was indeed a sight to behold. It has captivated our hearts enormously that exploring part of it in
four days was never enough. Surely, true to its pride and glory, Jordan is the “land of mesmerizing beauty
and contrast”. We are craving for more of Jordan. There will be next time, soon. Article and Photographs by: Maj Jennifer Orda
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- the UNDOF Journal
New look Camp Faour medical centre
fact that air evacuation from within the AO will
not be possible.
The upgrade of the medical centre in Camp Faouar
to a level 1 plus facility has given UNDOF the
capability to provide life saving procedures and
attend to the immediate needs of patients before
evacuation to a level 2 or even level 3 facility. A lot
of planning and consideration were being made by
the medical team in conjunction with the Engineers
Administration for the planning and construction
of the facilities. All options were exlpored before it
was decided that the major changes to the current
facility would be the inclusion of; an operating
theatre (OT), a radiology room, an intensive care
unit (ICU) and a post- anaesthesia recovery unit
(PARU)
With the withdrawal of Austrian Troops, including
their medical team, the Fiji Government volunteered
to send a surgical team as part of their contingent to
start the work for the level 1 plus facility in Golan.
With just two days of handing-over and taking over
from the Austrians the Fijian medical team had
managed to maintain the standard of services and
even lifted to another level its modus operandi.
Top left: Camp Faoaur level 1 plus facility
Middle right: Operating Theatre
Above: Intensive Care Unit
Right: Camp Faoaur Medical Centre staff
- the UNDOF Journal
21
Medical
The Medical Center at Camp Faouar has been
running as a Level 1 facility since the start of
UNDOF Mission in Syria. With the changing
situation in Syria, especially in the vicinity of
Damascus, the accessibility of the Level 2 facility
in Damascus becomes a major issue for the UN.
This becomes very critical when it comes to
evacuating injured personnel to a level 2 facility.
The next available option for a Level 2 facility is
Ziv Hospital in Zefat, Israel which has its its own
disadvantages including the issue of distance; the
process of getting across the boarders; and the
UNDOF
A soldiers story - getting out of danger
Unbeknownst to WO2 JiutaToga, the morning he set out to conduct his inventory check with NEPCON
locations on Mt Hermon, two of the three vehicle convoy he was travelling in was to be diverted to “no
go” territory by armed locals.
WO2 Toga hopped into the fuel tank vehicle driven by Sgt VoniyaniVasuca; which was tasked to resupply
1st Coy. Leading the convoy was a light armoured vehicle, followed by the fuel truck, and the ration truck
to the rear. Almost midway through the trip, WO2 Toga had to disembark the fuel truck to remove the
stone barriers in an unmanned checkpoint. The stones made it impossible for the truck to cross.
The trucks had just started to move when rounds from light support weapons were sprayed on the roads
in front of them; as if to warn them not to move. They had the choice to speed off or stop. They opted to
stop after assessing that it would be more deadly for them if the rounds were aimed at the fuel tank. Three
armed locals sprung from the sides of the road with their guns pointed at the occupants of the vehicle.
They split and jumped into the fuel truck, and the ration truck; which was being driven by NEPCON
personnel. Sgt Vasuca and the ration truck driver were ordered to detour off road. WO2 Toga managed to
alert the communications centre (COMCEN) on the exact location where they had initially parted with
the lead armored vehicle (which had managed to get away); but vaguely described the new route as the
radio was abruptly switched off by the armed local in the vehicle.
After being turned into several roads they reached a village and were taken into a house. There were
elderly men in the house; one of whom was a priest. The priest told the visitors that it was their culture
not to keep captured persons overnight. The priests remark made WO2 Toga breathe a sigh of relief. He
was confident that he and his comrades would be safe.
They showed the UN personnel areas which had been aerially bombarded the week before and tried
to determine whether the UN had a hand in it. With the help of an interpretor WO2 Toga was able
to communicate to them that Fiji and Nepal were only two of the many countries that made up the
UN. He explained that the UN was a neutral body and UNDOF was only one of its many branches.
He explained to them that they had to leave their families many miles behind and travel to the Golan
Heights to observe that the 1974 Agreement between the two countries were not violated. Satisfied with
the responses from WO2 Toga and Sgt Vasuca, the UN personnel were directed back to the junction
where they had turned off.
WO2 Toga radioed COMCEN to
inform them that they had been released
and were moving towards the MSR to
continue the journey up Mt Hermon; to
deliver the resupply. The JOC however
told them to wait at the junction where
they were to rendezvous with the Irish
rescue team. They waited and returned
to Camp Faouar with the rescue team
unharmed.
The morale of the story is to stay
calm and collected when caught in a
dangerous situation. This will allow
you to think clearly and make logical
decisions to get you out of trouble.
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- the UNDOF Journal
Jingle bells...it's x-mas time!
- the UNDOF Journal
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- the UNDOF Journal